National team boss Abraham reaches Hawassa

New Ethiopian national team boss Abraham Mebratu invited thirty four players to camp to prepare for the 2019 African Nations Cup final group qualification second round fixtures against visitors Sierra Leone. Though a back breaking undertaking to build a competitive side out of the blue for Waliya’s last meeting was a shocking 5-0 defeat to Ghana eleven months ago, Abraham is optimistic that he can setup a humble contingent in time for the qualification home match on 9th September at Hawassa International Stadium. “I am focused on building a competitive team. We will have a humble yet determined side ready for the home match against Sierra Leone,” the ever charming boss suggested.
They now have less than a month to find the best 23 players. Camp will include medical tests, fitness workouts, technical and tactical trainings in the coming weeks.
Since none of the goal keepers in the top eight are Ethiopians, all four are called from struggling sides. The likely first choice is Abel Mamo from Mekelakya (12th), T/Mariam Shanko from Hawassa (8th), Samson Assefa from Diredawa (10th) and Tsion Mered from relegated Arbaminch .
Petro Jet play maker Shimeles Bekele, Samoha striker Oumed Oukri and mid fielder Gatoch Panom from El-Group all three from the Egypt league, mid fielder Binyam Belay from Eskederbu of Albania are expected to join the team according to international regulations.